Is there a point?

Posted in Figure Realm Comments and Questions

Lately I've become less enamored with the Realm. There are many reasons for this sad state, but the primary cause is this:

Part of the reason I loved the Realm when I first joined was the comments and feedback I received from other Realmers. They both showed an appreciation for my work, as well as offered helpful criticism that helped me grow as a customizer. But for many moons now, that feeling of community has slowly fallen away, as feedback for my works has withered and dried to the point of nonexistence. To clarify, this only applies to figures that I submit normally. The figures I submit to the contests generate more feedback, and I'm appreciative of every one I receive. However, in recent times there is such an expanse of time between feedback that I begin to ponder the worth of submitting pieces for the site.

I'll admit, I probably place far too much significance on the opinions of others. At the same time, I absolutely love the feeling I get when I receive positive and constructive feedback for my work, and really, what artist doesn't love the admiration of their work?

Regardless, this environment of seeming apathy and disinterest has served to dishearten and disillusion me to consider, if not leaving the realm, then to reduce it to a simple vehicle for enticing viewers to sample my wares, rather than a community of individuals who share a common love and craft.

On the reverse, I also understand that I may have misunderstood the point an purpose of the Realm. It may well be that its primary purpose is to serve as an impersonal gallery of works to be quietly admired. Indeed, the problem may arise from the subjects that I choose to craft. As the great Dr. Nightmare has said, making works of popular or more well known characters may be the road to comments and commissions, and I see a certain logic within that paraphrase. I greatly respect Nightmare's advice upon the matter. It's just not a road that I can take whilst preserving my creativity.

I will not entreat upon anyone for feedback, and really any that I received out of pity I would consider a dishonor. Instead, I ask simply if any of you fine individuals know of similar sites to the Realm where I might also post my work, to spread knowledge of my skill and satisfy my desire for community. If you have ideas or advice for growing within Realm community I will appreciate that as well.


I have not chosen to leave the Realm, but I fear that I stand dangerously close upon that edge.